Former Painesville city manager picked for Lake County Port Authority board

Lake County commissioners have appointed former Painesville City Manager Rita McMahon to serve on the Lake County Port Authority's Board of Directors.

Her four-year term on the board begins Tuesday and extends through Dec. 31, 2016.

She replaces Lisa Habe, who chose not to be reappointed, Commissioner Robert E. Aufuldish said.

"We all know Rita did a super job leading the city of Painesville, so we think she'll be a great addition to the Port Authority," Aufuldish said.

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McMahon retired at the end of October after serving 15 years as Painesville's city manager.

She's worked on economic development issues with the city for years and would like to use those skills to benefit the county.

"I'm just hoping that I can bring some of my experience with economic development with Lake County to benefit the board and the Port Authority," McMahon said. "I look forward to working with them."

Some of the agency's tasks in 2013 will include hiring a new executive director after former Executive Director John Loftus recently retired.

The Port Authority also is working to secure leases for companies to occupy the former Coe Manufacturing site in Painesville, and to help county commissioners make a decision about the future of Lost Nation Airport.

Commissioners created the Port Authority in February 2007 with the mission to promote projects that will provide for job creation and employment opportunities and to improve the economic welfare of Lake County residents.

"Obviously over the years, she's been heavily involved in economic development, which is the Port Authority's mission," Commissioner Daniel P. Troy said.

The Port Authority is also authorized by state law to enhance, foster, aid, provide or promote transportation, economic development, housing, recreation, governmental operations, culture or research.